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# F A L L I N T O L E A R N I N G

LIFELONG LEARNING

Fall Semester 2026

WHAT IS RUI UNIVERSITY? RUI University is a multifaceted curriculum that promotes purposeful living. The program supports intellectual wellness by allowing residents to critically think and examine topics from a variety of disciplines. Residents engage with peers and visitors in discourse and work through questions collaboratively.

CLASSES Taught by RUI University Fellows and tailored to our residents’ interests. Class subjects include history, music, ﬁne arts, culinary, wine, horticulture, environmental sustainability, and more.

LEARNING LABS Activities that build upon class subjects. Learning labs engage all different types of learning styles: visual, auditory, kinesthetic, reading, and writing.

OUR CLASSES ARE FREE + OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

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#FallIntoLearning Dear Residents, Family, and Guests, At RUI University, Fall is a season to reconnect, rediscover, and learn something new. This semester, Fall into Learning invites residents, families, friends, and members of the greater community to experience thought-provoking classes, cultural traditions, and signature events designed to inspire curiosity and connection. Our Fall curriculum brings lifelong learning to life through engaging discussions, expert perspectives, history, science, and shared experiences. Whether exploring a new subject, exchanging ideas, or simply enjoying the experience of learning together, RUI University offers something for every curious mind. In September, we celebrate National Assisted Living Week (NALW), honoring the vibrant lives, stories, and connections that make our communities special. October explores Forensics & Justice: Science, Society & Truth, examining cuttingedge forensic technologies and the evolving intersection of science and justice, alongside our signature Oktoberfest celebration. In November, Legacy of Service explores the history, impact, and stories of our nation’s veterans as we commemorate Veterans Day, gather for our signature Fall Festival, and celebrate the gratitude and togetherness of Thanksgiving. We warmly invite residents, families, friends, and members of the greater community to #FallIntoLearning with RUI University. Come for a class, discover a new perspective, and experience the connection that makes lifelong learning meaningful at every stage of life. Warmest regards, The RUI University Team

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FINE ARTS Polynesian Dance/Culture Craft September 26, 2026 at 10:00 AM Get ready to Hula! This class will encompass dances from Hawaiian Hula and Ori Tahiti from the Polynesian Islands, starting with learning some basic movements and then combining choreography. We will also be working on making a paper Lei craft afterwards!

Latin Dance/Culture Craft October 24, 2026 at 10:00 AM In this session we will be learning basic Mexican Folklorico ballet movements with Choreography. This class will encompass the Mexican Cultural celebration of Dios Los Muertos and the traditional Mexican dances from the region. After dancing, stick around to make an exciting craft with step-by-step instructions.

Line Dance November 22, 2026 at 10:00 AM Giddy-up! Our November session will focus on Line Dancing. This class will encompass the U.S. Rodeo and Trail Ride tradition from the southwest and highlight the cowboy lifestyle and entertainment. Afterwards, we will be making Snap Fans craft.

For 25 years Alicia Edwards has performed as a student and teacher of dance in various locations all over the United States. She is brought to us courtesy of Tidewater Arts Outreach, whose mission is to bring joy to adults and those living in isolating circumstances and enhance their wellbeing through creative engagement with the arts.

FINE ARTS Japanese Painting Style and Technique September 8, 2026 at 2:00 PM We will explore the traditional style of Japanese art in our slideshow. With an emphasis on nature, simple architecture, landscape and minimalism. This culture's art often focuses on a reverence for the natural world, functionality, craftsmanship and simple design over excess. We will cover a variety of styles within Japanese art. Our painting will focus on a simple traditional scene of a bonsai tree and red sun similar to the Sumi-e or ink wash painting.

Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) in Art: October 13, 2026 at 2:00 PM This holiday is an iconic, globally recognized Mexican artistic tradition. It transforms death from a subject of grief into a vibrant celebration of life. Mixing a blend of Indigenous Aztec beliefs and European Catholic imagery, this artistic movement relies on brilliant colors, satirical humor, and distinct symbolic materials to bridge the physical world with the spiritual realm. We will create a fun colorful painting reflecting the holiday and its traditional imagery.

Native American Art November 10, 2026 at 2:00 PM In honor of Native American Heritage month, We will focus on North America, exploring the art styles and techniques from various Native American Tribes and Alaskan Natives. We will discuss Northwest Coast tribes, Eastern Woodlands, Western Plains, Southwest, and Native Alaskan. These will be brief overviews due to all the variations and rich cultural traditions over time. We will highlight works of art and choose a regional style to make a Native american inspired painting.

Emily Basto received an MS in Art Therapy from Eastern Virginia Medical School in 2009. She has her undergraduate degree in Sociology and Anthropology. Her interest in other cultures and customs influences many of her art projects. She currently works with older adults and really enjoys this community in various settings. Emily hopes to continue to promote art therapy services and highlight the many benefits

FINE ARTS Senior Living Experiences September 15, 2026 at 10:30 AM This class will feature curating experiences, including floral desing, seasonal creative direction, and decorative touches needed to turn an ordinary gathering into a polished and memorable experience while encouraging creativity, social engagement, and personal expression.

Dinner Party Decor October 6, 2026 at 10:30 AM Let’s make something wonderful! This session will explore creating and curating decor for an elegant dinner party - from thoughtfully styled tables to floral details and finishing touches, we’ll create inviting spaces that feel personal, elevated, and beautifully put together.

Creativity In Bloom November 24, 2026 at 10:30 AM Let your creativity blossom! Join us for a hands-on floral experience where you’ll design a beautiful flower arrangement using colorful blooms, greenery, and decorative touches. Residents will have the opportunity to explore their creativity, make your own unique arrangement, and enjoy the calming beauty and fragrance of fresh flowers.

Mini Luxe is a mobile creative experience and event decor company founded by Mr. & Miss. Sheffield. We bring thoughtfully designed experiences directly to senior living communities, organizations, workplaces, schools, community spaces and private connection, conversation, and joy.

CREATIVE WRITING Your Story Workshop: Unleashing the Power of Life Stories September 21, 2026 AT 1:00 PM In our inaugural Your Story Workshop, we will explore the significance of documenting our “life stories” and share strategies to stimulate our memories. We will discuss the use of prompts to trigger recollections and how to create a personalized Memory List organized by years and events. This approach makes it unique for each individual. I will encourage everyone to continue developing their list in preparation for our next session.

Your Story Workshop: “Memory Lists” October 19, 2026 at 1:00 PM In our second session, we will explore participants' Memory Lists. Each individual will then choose a specific memory to write about for ten minutes, demonstrating how incremental writing can accumulate significantly over time. Additionally, we will discuss the crucial role that photographs play in enhancing our memories. I will encourage everyone to continue writing from their Memory Lists and to bring their reflections to our third session.

Your Story Workshop: “Sharing Your Story” November 16, 2026 at 1:00 PM In the third session, I will invite participants to share their writings with the group. This act of sharing not only allows for valuable feedback but also helps evoke memories in others about their own narratives. To conclude the session, I will outline ways they can further their writing journey and explain what support I can provide through my Your Story business.

Theresa O’Brien has a bachelor’s degree in communication arts and English. She has worked for a major women’s magazine, several smalltown and several larger-city newspapers, and worked in the Newport News, VA, school system for 13 years, sharing her love of writing with elementary-aged students. She started her Your Story business by combining her love of writing and her desire to preserve an individual’s life stories. She believes that everyone has a story to tell and share, and in this age of instant and digital communication, there is something to be said for having a written-down account of one’s life.

CULINARY Colonial Hot Chocolate September 14, 2026 at 1:00 PM Chocolate was a popular treat during colonial times. By the middle of the 18th century, hot chocolate, flavored with a variety of spices, had become a favorite drink in both Europe and America, even having such famous supporters as Thomas Jefferson saying “The superiority of chocolate, both for health and nourishment, will soon give it the preference over tea and coffee in America which it has in Spain.”

What is Chocolate? October 5, 2026 at 1:00 PM Calling all Chocolate Enthusiasts! We will talk about where chocolate comes from, how it is a fruit, and famous people who wre involved in the delicious history of chocolate. We'll also explore what the cacao content of a chocolate means, how if affects your health, and how it affects the taste of the chocolate.

Chocolate Tasting Event November 17, 2026 at 1:00 PM At the end of the program, we will do a taste test to sample several chocolates to discover what makes one piece of chocolate different from another. What is the proper way to taste chocolate? Join Mary and put your skills to the test while enjoying a delicious treat. Mary Griffith is a 1990 graduate of Christopher Newport University, with a BSBA in Management and a Communucations Certifcate. She was a member of the American Marketing Association, and a student assistant in the accounting department while at CNU. Mary has been a member of Alumni Society Board in the early to late 90's , and is currently srving on the ASB again, and co-chairing the Careers Committe. Mary earned her MBA from Old Dominion University in 1991, and went on to be the Director of Marketing for a software development company. In 1994, Mary startedd Virginia's Finest Chocolates, which was a student project in the Small Business Institute classes at CNU, and is still her project today.

HISTORY Exploring the History of Hampton Roads June 5, 2026 at 10:00 AM Join historian and museum director Robert Kelly for a fascinating journey through the rich history of our region. From Virginia’s early colonial days to the American Revolution, the Civil War, and beyond, Mr. Kelly will explore the people, places, and events that shaped both our community and the nation’s story.

American Revolution and the Civil War July 10, 2026 at 10:00 AM This course will delve into topics including the American Revolution and the Civil War, and explore how these histories connect to Fort Monroe, Gloucester, and the Marquis de Lafayette.

The Story of Virginia August 7, 2026 at 10:00 AM Join historian and museum director Robert Kelly for a fascinating journey through the rich history of our region. From Virginia’s early colonial days to the American Revolution, the Civil War, and beyond, Mr. Kelly will explore the people, places, and events that shaped both our community and the nation’s story.

Join historian and museum director Robert Kelly for a fascinating journey through the rich history of our region. From Virginia’s early colonial days to the American Revolution, the Civil War, and beyond, Mr. Kelly will explore the people, places, and events that shaped both our community and the nation’s story.

WELLNESS Exercise with Patty: The Marching Band September 2, 2026 at 9:00 AM

Exercise with Patty: Dios de Los Muertos October 7, 2026 at 9:00 AM

Exercise with Patty: Chair Kick-Back Vibe November 4, 2026 at 9:00 AM

Patty Pokki, RUI University Resident Fellow

BUSINESS Avoiding Common Healthcare Scams September 11, 2026 at 2:00 PM This class will cover the most common types of scams affecting seniors and will share ways to prevent, detect, and report those scams before it’s too late. Shawn Smith is the State Director of the Virginia Senior Medicare Patrol program. He leads a team of over 100 staff that educate seniors on fraud prevention. Shawn is also the author of “101 Fraud Tips”, a guide to help seniors protect their money and identify from scammers. In addition to being an author and speaker, Shawn is a life coach, ordained minister, and father, living in Richmond, VA. Register for RUI University classes online at HidenwoodByRUI.com/rui-university or by calling 757.930.1075 7

RUINFORMED Calling All Weather Geeks Age Well Series September 16, 2026 at 4:00 PM Explore the fascinating science behind the weather that shapes our everyday lives. Calling All Weather Geeks features Nicholas Fillo and Amanda Sava of NOAA’s National Weather Service, who will take residents and families behind the forecast to discover how weather is observed, predicted, and communicated. From changing conditions to severe-weather awareness, this engaging conversation offers a closer look at the science, technology, and expertise that help us better understand the atmosphere around us.

The Art of Science and Culinary Cuisine Age Well Series October 21, 2026 at 4:00 PM Discover where creativity, chemistry, and cuisine meet in The Art of Science and Culinary Cuisine, featuring Matthew Deacon, RUI Corporate Director of Culinary Operations. This engaging session explores the science behind the foods we enjoy—from how ingredients interact and cooking techniques transform flavor and texture to the artistry that turns a meal into an experience. Residents and families will gain a fresh perspective on the fascinating relationship between culinary innovation, science, and the senses.

Resilience and Renewal Age Well Series November 18, 2026 at 4:00 PM What helps us remain strong, adaptable, and engaged as we age? Resilience and Renewal, featuring Mark Cifarelli, PT, Director of Clinical Practice for Legacy Healthcare Services, explores the connection between physical resilience, movement, recovery, and maintaining independence throughout the aging journey. Residents and families will discover practical insights for supporting mobility, confidence, and overall well-being while embracing renewal as an important part of aging well.

CULINARY Heirloom Recipes & Culinary Heritage September 23, 2026 at 2:00 PM Celebrate the stories, traditions, and memories preserved through food. Residents will explore how treasured family recipes connect generations, reflect cultural heritage, and strengthen identity while sharing personal recipes and contributing to a community cookbook.

Soups, Stews & Seasonal Roots October 14, 2026 at 2:00 PM Explore the comforting flavors of autumn through Butternut Squash Soup, Hungarian Goulash, and Braised Leeks. Residents will discover how seasonal ingredients, slow-cooking traditions, and warming foods support nourishment and wellness while sharing memories of favorite fall dishes.

Gratitude & Gathering: Celebrating Together November 18, 2026 at 2:00 PM Discover how food, gratitude, and tradition bring people together around the table. Featuring elevated holiday classics such as Sage Stuffing and Cranberry Chutney, residents will explore the connection between shared meals, emotional wellness, and meaningful traditions while reflecting on the foods and gatherings they cherish most.

CULINARY:UNCORKED Lobsters, Wineries & Foods of New England: Coastal Wines & Harvest Stories September 28, 2026 at 2:00 PM Journey through New England’s emerging wine country, where cool coastal climates, local agriculture, and harvest traditions shape distinctive wines. Residents will explore cold-climate winemaking, discover regional grape varieties, and consider how seafood, seasonal foods, and storytelling connect wine to a sense of place.

Germany & Austria: Rieslings and Fall Gold — Harvest Traditions & Noble Grapes October 29, 2026 at 2:00 PM Travel through the celebrated vineyards of Germany and Austria to discover the remarkable range of Riesling and Grüner Veltliner. Residents will explore how cool climates, vineyard slopes, acidity, and harvest timing influence wines from crisp and dry to beautifully balanced sweet styles while discovering the autumn traditions that surround the European wine harvest.

France: Burgundy & Beaujolais — Gratitude in the Glass November 17, 2026 at 2:00 PM Experience two distinctive expressions of French wine culture through Burgundy and neighboring Beaujolais. Residents will compare elegant Pinot Noir and expressive Gamay while exploring terroir, centuries-old winemaking traditions, and the connection between wine, food, and place. A seasonal focus on gratitude invites reflection on the people, traditions, and shared experiences behind every glass.

HEALTH Breath of Life: Lung Vitality & Calm September 16, 2026 at 10:00 AM Discover the powerful connection between breath, movement, and well-being. Breath of Life: Lung Vitality & Calm explores how healthy breathing supports energy, endurance, posture, and relaxation. Residents will learn how mindful breathing, gentle movement, and everyday habits can support lung health while using the breath as a practical tool for greater calm, focus, and vitality.

From the Ground Up: Foot & Balance Elegance October 14, 2026 at 10:00 AM Confident movement begins with a strong foundation. From the Ground Up: Foot & Balance Elegance explores the important role our feet, ankles, posture, and senses play in balance and mobility. Residents will discover practical strategies for supporting foot health, improving stability, choosing supportive footwear, and strengthening balance to promote safer, more confident movement in everyday life.

Grace in Motion: Joyful Rhythms of Dance November 11, 2026 at 10:00 AM Experience the joy of movement while discovering why dance is a powerful form of wholeperson fitness. Grace in Motion: Joyful Rhythms of Dance explores how music and rhythmic movement can support cardiovascular health, balance, coordination, memory, and emotional well-being. Residents will discover how dance—whether seated, standing, or simply moving to a favorite song—can encourage self-expression, social connection, and a joyful approach to lifelong wellness.

SIT BACK, RELAX, + TUNE-IN to our monthly educational webinars where we bring in new subject-matter experts each month to share their insight on a variety of topics. Scan the QR code below to register today!

RESOURCE CENTER W W W . R U I . N E T / R E S O U R C E - C E N T E R

Go online to stay up-to-date with our monthly webinars, book recommendations, online resources, and more!

LIFELONG LEARNING

#FallIntoLearning

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@RUI.TheHidenwood